Abstract
The objective of this study was to measure the effects of improper airflow and refrigerant charge on the seasonal performance of a typical 10.6 kW, R-410A residential heat pump with a thermostatic expansion valve. Heating and cooling tests were performed in combinations of three refrigerant charges of 75%, 100%, and 125% of nominal value and two airflows of 75% and 100% of rated airflow. In addition, cyclic tests were performed to estimate the heating and cooling seasonal coefficient of performance (COP) at six climate zones specified by Air-Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Institute (AHRI) Standard 210/240-2008. Results showed that, in each climate zone, increases in refrigerant charge at the rated airflow could improve the unit's heating seasonal COP by as much as 5%. However, combined decreases in airflow and refrigerant charge could penalize the unit's heating seasonal COP by as much as 10%.
Original language | English (US) |
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Pages (from-to) | 1802-1810 |
Number of pages | 9 |
Journal | Energy and Buildings |
Volume | 43 |
Issue number | 7 |
DOIs | |
State | Published - Jul 2011 |
Keywords
- Airflow
- Heat pumps
- Refrigerant charge
- Seasonal performance
ASJC Scopus subject areas
- Civil and Structural Engineering
- Building and Construction
- Mechanical Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering